The Wanderers first grade side will take on Tuggeranong United at 4.30pm, officially kicking off a new chapter in women's soccer, and what is hoped will be a land of opportunity for promising young players.

"It's been a long time coming. I actually thought it would never come around," proud Wanderers captain Maddy Harris said.

The 24-year-old, who has played a key part in Henwood Park women's success in Wagga, would have loved the opportunity to arise five years ago.

But she's rapt for the next generation. 

"It opens up a lot more doors, just the opportunity to be seen by elite coaches and there's lots of squads and training development which it would be awesome to see the younger girls picked up in."

That's the satisfaction. The excitement and anticipation will be brought on by the prospect of playing at a higher level.

However, that same step up in standard will cause the nerves.

"Can't wait for it, we're looking forward to it," women's first grade coach Mick Godbier said.

"It has been a long road and a long time coming for female footballers in the Riverina and I'm pretty chufffed to be here and to be a part of it.

"I think playing in NPL will be a big shift for the girls who are used to playing club football. We've played Gungahlin and we've played Canberra FC ((in trial games, losing both). They get the ball down and they are very, very quick.

"I'm expecting no different with Tuggeranong. It's going to be a good chance for us to get off on the right foot and hopefully we can get a win to start the season."

The Wanderers will be helped by the addition of Canberra-based Rachel Lyons (originally from Griffith) along with Wollongong-based Kia Godbier and a couple of other players with Canberra experience.

While Harris in the midfield and talented young striker Brooke Gayler - who might've been lost to Canberra had the Wanderers not successfully joined Capital Football's NPL - will also be instrumental to their campaign.

Godbier said he's encouraging attacking football from the outset. But he added that the venture into Canberra is about more than results.

"That's what I see my role as, to give these girls an opportunity to be seen by other coaches and other clubs," Godbier said.

"If you have a Canberra FC coach go, 'Ooh gee, I really like her, let's offer her a contract and let's get her over here,' then to me that's what it's all about - giving these girls an opportunity.

"Winning will be a bonus. Not that I'd do anything to lose but we'll be competitive. I'm sure we will be."

Meanwhile, the Wanderers men's season begins next weekend.

They've been buoyed by a new signing on the eve of the season, announcing the recruitment of central defender Paul Milner from the United States.

The Wanderers men are at home to O'Connor Knights next Saturday at Gissing Oval.

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